Comparative Industrial Relations Research: Towards Reversing the Gender Bias

Abstract

AbstractThis paper seeks to begin the reversal of the gender bias in comparative industrial relations research which is still focused on comparing and contrasting the regimes that cover mainly male manual workers. There is little systematic evidence on industrial relations practices in private or even public services, for non‐manual workers or for atypical workers. These employment areas are central for women's employment and are of increasing importance in the labour market, but few attempts have been made to compare industrial relations regimes by reference to the protection they afford to women. Taking into account industrial relations practice in these areas can change significantly the classification and estimated coverage of collective bargaining systems. By ‘mainstrearning’ gender issues it also becomes clear that current macroeconomic policy proposals have major gender implications that are ignored in current debates